By TODD REED
News Leader Sports Editor
www.tnl-news.com
Malvern's Dominic Chiurco closed out a brilliant wrestling career by going 1-2 this past weekend on the mats at The Ohio State University.
Competing in his first state wrestling championships, Chiurco won his opening 285-pound match, pinning Bryan Eyerly of Ontario at 3:16.
A day later, the senior lost in the quarterfinals to Greg Dailey, getting pinned at 3:54. Dailey went on to finish second.
Sent to the consolation bracket, Chiurco's career as a Hornet came to a close as he dropped a 7-3 decision to Cody Johnson of New Lebanon Dixie. Johnson ended up placing eighth.
"Every match down here is between two tough competitors, and Dominic's bracket was no different," stated Head Coach Doug Angeloni. "It was nice for Dominic to get a win in his first match. The score was close, but Dominic was able to put Eyerly on his back and get the pin midway through the second period.
"In his second match, he went up against a real strong kid from Independence. Dominic had a hard time working anything on him, and he eventually got caught and pinned. The Independence kid went on to lose in the finals in overtime.
"In the consolations, we thought we could beat Johnson. It was a real close match, but I felt Dominic wrestled a bit more cautious than he had at districts. There was a lot of pressure on this match. The winner would guarantee himself a state placing.
"I think the pressure and the atmosphere really affected how Dominic wrestled.
"The loss put him out of it, but it by no means tarnished a great season and a great career. To get to state and finish in the top 12 is quite an accomplishment. I still feel Dominic is just as good as the eight placers. Every match is tight in Columbus."
Chiurco ends his senior season with a 39-5 record. All five loses were to opponents who qualified to state. He leaves Malvern with a career mark of 133-50.
"I've been fortunate enough to coach Dominic these past two years," noted Coach Angeloni. "He's been a really dedicated athlete for Malvern sports. I feel his wrestling and football have complimented each other. He's just an overall good kid, who got to Columbus through hard work and his dedication to the sport.
"He's worked very hard in the off season, attending several wrestling camps. And that's what you have to do to take it to the next level. Dominic is a perfect example of what hard work will do for an athlete.
"He was disappointed he didn't place. But his coaches have never been disappointed in Dom. We are very proud of the season he had, and for his four years as a varsity wrestler. He's the type of kid you want on a team."
treed@the-review.com
www.tnl-news.com
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